SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES
(John 15:16) "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you."
(John 15:5) "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
(John 15:1-4) (1) "I am the true vine, and my father is the husbandman." (2) "Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." (3) "Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you." (4) "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me."
PROLOGUE
This message highlights the profound benefits of abiding in Christ, often referred to as the true vine. Drawing from the 15th chapter of John’s Gospel, specifically verses 16 and 17, we are reminded of the deep spiritual connection and relationship that believers are called to cultivate.
When we remain in Christ, we not only draw strength and nourishment from Him, but we also bear fruit that reflects His love and purpose in our lives. Additionally, we are called to love one another, reinforcing the importance of community and mutual support among believers.
This message invites us to understand the transformative power of abiding in Christ, encouraging us to live in alignment with His teachings and to share His message of grace and love with the world around us.
As we move into this important message, let's take a moment to reflect on our past experiences and the state of our hearts and minds before we encountered the transformative light of the gospel, of the moments of confusion and darkness that appeared to overshadow our lives, until the bright message of salvation broke through, bringing clarity and purpose to our journey.
The vine spoken of in the fifteenth chapter of St. John's gospel represents Christ, the vine, the very essence of life, and our connection to life is found in him. It is fascinating that just like the blood running through our veins carrying the necessary oxygen and other nutrients we need to live, we get our life nutrients from abiding in Christ, the Vine.
I want to share some insights from an inspiring article I read by David Wilkinson, which explores the fascinating growth process of a vine. In the article, Wilkinson describes how vines face challenging conditions that can make it difficult for new branches to emerge.
What captured my attention is that the vine develops runners that intricately cross one another, forming a complex structure that resembles a cross. It explains how the runners on the right side grow toward the left, and those on the left grow toward the right, forming a cross.
In conclusion, let me say that this unique configuration not only supports the growth of new branches but also enhances the vine’s ability to thrive in its environment. The article beautifully illustrates the resilience and adaptability of nature, reminding us that even in challenging situations, growth and new beginnings are always possible. Let us never forget that the branch and the vine are connected at the cross.
"HOW To ABIDE IN CHRIST THE VINE."
One day, while browsing through my laptop's photos, I came across an old picture of seagulls standing in a row like little kids—three of them sitting peacefully on the hood of my 18-wheeler, gazing at me through the window. It's remarkable to see these wild birds, usually fighting among themselves, so calm and steady, lined up like schoolchildren to comfort a troubled man of God. This was around 2008 near Salt Lake City, Utah, during a difficult period in my life that might have pushed some people to seek psychiatric help.
The vine mentioned in the fifteenth chapter of John's gospel symbolizes Christ, the vine, the very source of life, and our connection to life is found in him. It is interesting that, just like the blood flowing through our veins carrying essential oxygen and nutrients, we receive our life sustenance by abiding in Christ, the Vine.
I want to share some insights from an inspiring article I read by David Wilkinson, which explores the fascinating growth process of a vine. In the article, Wilkinson describes how vines face challenging conditions that can make it difficult for new branches to emerge.
What caught my attention is that the vine develops runners that cross each other intricately, forming a complex structure that looks like a cross. It explains how the runners on the right side grow toward the left, and those on the left grow toward the right, creating a cross.
The article beautifully illustrates the resilience and adaptability of nature, reminding us that even in challenging situations, growth and new beginnings are always possible. Let us never forget that the branch and the vine are connected at the cross.
In today's world, many people turn to God only during tough times or when they desperately need help, often seeing Him as a last resort rather than a constant presence in their lives. Relying on God mainly during crises can lead to a shallow relationship that focuses more on what we can get—comfort, guidance, or help—rather than building a deeper, more meaningful connection.
Abiding in Christ goes beyond just attending church or reading the Bible – it's a way of life. It involves seeking God's will and following His guidance, even when it's difficult. To live a life full of purpose and joy, we need to understand and embrace several important principles. I have outlined these for us to explore and deepen our understanding. By reflecting on these principles, we can develop a deeper grasp of what it means to live abundantly in Christ.
1. **Remaining Connected to Christ**: To lead a life that is not only fruitful but also overflowing with abundance, we must stay connected to Christ, who is often referred to as the vine. Just as branches rely on the vine for nourishment and sustenance, our spiritual well-being is nurtured through our relationship with Him. This connection is the source of our strength, guidance, and the ability to produce good works.
2. **Finding Our Way into the Vine**: Maintaining this vital connection requires intentional effort. We must actively seek ways to deepen our relationship with Christ. This may involve prayer, studying Scripture, participating in communal worship, and engaging in acts of service. Each of these practices helps us to draw nearer to Him and understand His will for our lives.
3. **Access Through the Blood of Christ**: The incredible news is that God has provided us with a clear path to access the vine—this is made possible through the precious blood of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. His sacrifice offers us forgiveness and restoration, allowing us to establish a deep and lasting connection with Him. Through acknowledging His sacrifice and inviting Him into our lives, we can fully experience the richness of the relationship and the abundant life it brings.
4. **Aligning our prayers with God's will is essential; it involves seeking His guidance and understanding His purpose for our lives. We must recognize that His plans, even if they differ from our own desires, are meant for our good and spiritual growth.
5. **Once we have been accepted into the family of God, building a strong, lasting relationship with Him requires us to engage with Him regularly, sharing our lives in both good times and bad, and appreciating His presence as a source of strength and wisdom in all circumstances.
As we learn to follow God's call on our lives, we'll experience spiritual growth. This is often referred to as "The Prayer of the Five-Fold Blessing," which covers key areas like relationships, emotions, and finances, as well as overall physical and spiritual health. So, when we're unsure how to pray for someone, we can confidently ask the Lord to bless them in every area of their life. We can be sure that God will meet them exactly where they are and bless them in fulfilling their needs.
By making prayer a part of our daily routine, we can deepen our connection with God, turning our faith into a deep personal experience filled with love, trust, and understanding. It's really about having God as a steady presence in our lives, not just someone to turn to when things get tough.
Let me sum up by stressing how crucial it is to come to our heavenly Father with an open, receptive heart and unwavering trust. We should know that He takes joy in giving us gifts, which may come in unexpected ways but are always tailored to our needs.
"NOURISHMENT FROM CHRIST THE VINE."
This message about the benefits of abiding in Christ, the vine, can be summarized with the words Solitude and Relationship: "For there to be life, there has to be conception, and for there to be conception, there has to be intimacy, and there can be no intimacy if we are not connected to the vine."
Isn't it true that most people prioritize their privacy and keep their curtains closed to protect what's inside their homes? The inner workings of a family are a shared secret between spouses and children, built on trust and commitment. Intimacy is the foundation, and both partners are open with each other, sharing every detail because their marriage bond is sacred.
Ever heard the old saying, "What goes on in the home stays at home"? That's why the sanctity of family life depends on trust and commitment between you and your wife. Therefore, the same level of devotion, dedication, and trust we have in a marriage should also be present in our spiritual journey with God.
As we grow in grace and deepen our relationship with the Lord, learning what He values, we shouldn't share what He's revealed to us in secret with others, because it is in our most intimate moments with the Lord that something spiritual is conceived within us. This precious seed must stay hidden and protected as it grows, until it's ready to be revealed.
Many of you are in a phase of spiritual growth, nurturing the unique plans and destinies that the Living God has ordained for you. As you prepare for this important transition, take a moment to pause and reflect on what God has been preparing you for and what is about to emerge from this journey.
Think about the excitement that comes with bringing forth something so precious and significant within your spiritual being. This is a time to appreciate the effort and faith that have brought you to this pivotal point, where your dreams and divine purpose are ready to manifest.
When we reach a point in our spiritual journey where we abide in the love of Christ, we are elevated to a place in God that allows us to receive fresh revelation and guidance each day, for it is there we can find peace. It is in this sacred place, when it feels like the world is closing in and life becomes a burden, that we can boldly claim God's promises will be there to refresh us in our time of need.
In conclusion, let me say that God has a set time for everything to come forth, which is why we must return to purity and holiness before our Creator. His word says that we are to pursue peace with all men and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.
"CULTIVATING A LIFE OF DIVINE PURPOSE."
For a branch to thrive, grow, and bear fruit, it must stay connected to the vine. The vine provides the branch with life; without this connection, the branch cannot produce fruit. We must remain in the vine (Christ) to share in God's glory.
Jesus aimed to share these profound spiritual truths with his disciples because it was vital for them to build a strong relationship with God and each other. Understanding these truths would help them strengthen their faith, foster harmony among themselves, and ultimately fulfill the mission Jesus entrusted to them.
Allowing Christ to live his life through us can be used by God to shine a light of hope on a confused world seeking answers. Therefore, if we love the Lord and have his love for souls deep within our hearts, we will abide in the vine and bear fruit.
Sometimes, we get confused, and our minds play tricks on us. Let's imagine being in a dark room or cave with a tiny pinhole of light shining through. If we have a match, we can strike it, and the flicker and flame of that small match can make all the difference in the world to us.
Whatever little we do for God in this dark world, seeking answers, can be compared to the hope that a small match provides in a desperate situation, by illuminating the room and showing where everything is.
When I accepted Christ into my life, His Spirit began a work of grace within me, and I came under new management. I am no longer my own but have been bought at a great price. God’s Spirit produces His character in my life, teaching me the value of having an intimate relationship with Him by abiding in Christ, the Vine.
My relationship with God is unlike any other. It isn't based on material possessions, fleeting friendships, or superficial relationships. Instead, it is rooted in a deep connection with the one who planned every part of my life from start to finish. My walk with God is a treasured friendship that fills me with joy as I sense His life flowing through me, giving me the daily encouragement and strength I need to keep going.
Abiding in Christ can bring you numerous benefits that will enrich your life and strengthen your relationships with others. By staying connected to Christ, you will discover inner peace, strength, and guidance to face life's challenges.
In summary, let me conclude by saying that the Lord stated in His Word that His people perish without a vision. Therefore, discovering our purpose fuels and drives our vision, and knowing that God has a purpose for my life gives me an unwavering hope that serves as an anchor for my soul.
MY CONCLUSION
Throughout this message, we have learned that abiding in Christ, the true vine, enables us to face life's challenges with courage and hope, knowing we are not alone. It also means we can experience the power of His love and grace in our daily lives because the benefits of abiding in Christ are truly profound and life-changing.
When believers remain connected to God through their personal relationship with Jesus Christ, they experience unparalleled spiritual growth, form a deep bond with God, and lead a peaceful, fulfilling life that surpasses all understanding.
We must awaken to our calling and detach from the love of this world, including self-love. We need to turn to the Lord with all our hearts, fasting and praying with tears until we hear from heaven, remembering that as believers, we are subject to Christ, the risen Head of the Church.
Satan may be called the god of this world, but the good news is: "We that are in Christ are no longer under his authority or control." “We are under new management and leadership because we have been translated out of the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of His dear Son.
Back in June 2018, after returning from a mission trip in the Philippines, I was driving my truck on Interstate 90 in Montana. I noticed a young bald eagle gliding alongside my passenger side mirror, which amazed me. Unfortunately, I didn't have my phone nearby to take a photo of this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Soon after, the Lord's presence became very strong in my truck, and I heard the voice of His Spirit asking me to rewrite one of my old books about the True Vine. I told the Lord that I had already given the manuscript to others, and they had written books based on it. But He replied in my spirit, "I want you to rewrite it."
I said, "Lord, give me something to write." He replied, "Strength through the Vine." I immediately thought of the eagle's molting period, especially after seeing an eagle just minutes before this visitation from the Lord glide past my truck.
God affirmed His word to me through the voice of His Spirit and the sight of a young eagle gliding beside my truck at over sixty miles an hour. He has given me a need to rewrite that book. I will never forget what happened when I asked for something else, and He replied, "The Test of Strength." I instantly had a vision of what happens when you squeeze toothpaste. Suddenly, a thought entered my mind, clarifying what people see when they squeeze us the wrong way.
I cherish my close walk with God and value that He cares about me. When He wakes me up around three to pray, I respectfully come before Him. I put on a shirt, wash my face, brush my teeth, use some mouthwash, and comb my hair before I go before the King of the universe.
I pick up a Bible from my bookcase, turn on some soft worship music, and place a pillow in front of my chair where I have carefully set my Bible. At times, I'll put my open Bible on my chest and start talking to God, asking Him to lead me into His plan and purpose for my life. I'll remind Him that He's the potter and I'm the clay, and that He must increase and I must decrease.
In conclusion, I want to highlight an important truth from Scripture: God has assured us that He will not withhold any good thing from His people. This promise reflects His unwavering love and desire to bless us. God desires to unveil the mysteries of His Kingdom to us, allowing us to gain deeper insight into His plan for our lives, which invites us into a closer relationship with Him and a greater understanding of His divine will and purpose.
MY CLOSING PRAYER
Father, I ask that you bless each person who, through this message, has surrendered more of their life to your purpose. Lord, I ask that you bless them spiritually, financially, physically, relationally, and emotionally so that their life may be enriched, and they will, in turn, enrich the lives of others.
Lord, I ask that you awaken the gifts, callings and talents placed in them from birth so that they may become unified in the faith with other believers, realizing the need to work together in harmony as a fine-tuned orchestra in your hands.
Father God, please forgive us for failing to remember that you know our needs before we ask, and Lord, we need your divine guidance to walk fully in your blessing and goodness as you lead us by your Spirit to divine appointments. I am confident that you will deliver us from evil and temptation.
Father, I pray you will stir us up and burden our hearts for true revival in every country worldwide. Lord, demonstrate to the people in these countries that you are the Unchanging God, for your word declares it. What you were yesterday, you are today.
Dear Lord, please help those needing deliverance from oppressing spirits, including illnesses that may be attacking their bodies, be set free by your Holy Spirit. Father, according to your blessed Holy word, I am confident you will raise a standard against these attacks and deliver these precious people in Jesus' mighty name.
Lord, I pray that the power of your written and spoken word be activated through this prayer. I apply the following scriptures to my prayer (John 16:23), believing that you have heard and answered me according to your divine will and purpose, for it is in Jesus' mighty name I pray and ask these favors. A-Men
International Evangelist
Jerry W. Hulse, Ph.D.
Miracle Life Church International
